3PLs should do more to drive supply chain developments

Respondents, made up of directors and senior managers from retailers, manufacturers, logistics companies and technology providers, overwhelmingly cited technology providers as the main drivers of change.

86% said they contributed significantly to developments, followed by retailers at 71%, with manufacturers and logistics providers well down.   

In addition, a dramatic 76% said they thought that logistics companies should be contributing a lot more.  

The findings are released ahead of the SCALA Annual Supply Chain Debate, a key highlight in the logistics calendar, returning this month to bring together leading industry professionals to discuss major changes affecting the supply chain sector. 

John Perry, managing director of SCALA, said: “The findings of our pre-debate survey have shown distinctly divided opinions about who is driving changes in the supply chain sector. A number believe that consumers are the main driving force behind industry innovations.

“However”, he added, “if Jeff Bezos of Amazon believes it’s Amazon’s role to innovate – not the job of the consumer – and that Amazon focuses on enhancing and developing new consumer experiences, then it’s not the consumers driving requirements, it’s the new businesses. ‘The disrupters’ are driving the new world, and everyone else is having to follow the new expectations set.”

Now in it’s 15th year, the Annual Supply Chain Debate will see esteemed speakers from Sainsbury’s and Dunelm, along with 150 senior professionals, gather in the impressive grounds of the historic Coombe Abbey in Warwickshire on 28th June 2018.

John said: “With the many differing opinions and the supply chain playing a crucial role in business success, this is going to be one of our best ever debates. In addition to our speakers, it’s a great opportunity for the industry leaders to discuss their views.”

Held annually by leading procurement supply chain and logistics consultancy, SCALA, the theme of this year is ‘who is driving developments in supply chain and customer service - retailers, brand owners, logistics companies or technology providers?’. With some initial insight provided by the pre-debate survey, the event will offer the chance for more in-depth discussion amongst industry leaders.  

Standard tickets are priced at £135 +VAT, and £95 +VAT for CILT members.  

To find out more about the event or to book tickets, please visit: http://www.scalagroup.co.uk/scala-annual-supply-chain-debate-2018/ or follow the Twitter hashtag #SupplyChainDebate18